After a recent terrorist attack at a synagogue in La Grande-Motte, France, the President of the Representative Council of Jewish Institutions of France (CRIF), Yonathan Arfi, emphasized the need for a shift in perception among the French public to better understand and combat antisemitism. In an interview with The Jerusalem Post, Arfi highlighted the changing face of antisemitism in France, pointing to a viral image of the armed arsonist at the Beth Yaacov synagogue as a symbol of this new wave of hatred.
Arfi urged the public to recognize the roots of antisemitism, which now encompass ideologies like Israel-hatred, radical Islamism, and social media conspiracy theories. He emphasized the importance of updating the understanding of antisemitism beyond historical stereotypes, to effectively address and prevent future attacks.
Despite the solidarity and support shown by officials and fellow citizens at a recent rally against antisemitism, Arfi highlighted the ongoing threat faced by French Jews. He called for collective action to combat this growing menace and protect the values of liberal democracy.
Arfi’s statement
“We have the feeling in France that a minority of French society, mainly made up of pro-Palestinians, are using the Gaza cause to attack Jews in France,” said Arfi.
Arfi’s message underscored the need for a united front against antisemitism, reiterating that an attack on Jews is ultimately a threat to the entire fabric of Western democracy.
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